In an expression of defiance against the Punjab government and the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA), the Congress party organized a protest on Monday to show solidarity with farmers engaged in a hunger strike outside the GMADA office. This demonstration was in opposition to the proposed acquisition of approximately 10,000 acres of agricultural land.
A significant crowd assembled at the location, voicing their discontent with the government and calling for an immediate cessation of the land acquisition efforts. The protest was spearheaded by former health minister Balbir Singh Sidhu, with the Leader of Opposition, Pratap Singh Bajwa, also present to lend his support.
After addressing the protesters, Bajwa met with the farmers on hunger strike, expressing his complete backing for their cause. He assured them of his commitment, stating, “The Punjab government is forcefully pushing for land acquisition from farmers, and this will be resisted at all costs.”
Bajwa criticized the government’s policies as being detrimental to both farmers and laborers, claiming they are designed to undermine these communities economically. “The Congress party has consistently defended the rights of farmers and laborers and will persist in doing so,” he emphasized, warning that should the acquisition move forward, the party would escalate its protests and bring the issue to every available forum.
Sidhu also condemned the government led by Bhagwant Mann, labeling it ineffective. He accused GMADA of coercively seizing farmers’ lands and criticized its policy of imposing additional fees for corner plots or those adjacent to parks. “This policy is inequitable and needs to be revoked immediately,” he asserted.
The protesting farmers made it clear they are resolute in their fight, signaling their readiness to take any necessary measures to defend their land rights.
Other notable figures, including Harkesh Chand Sharma and Mayor Amarjeet Singh Jeeti Sidhu, also spoke to the assembled crowd.
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